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OVERVIEW
OF TMJ / TMD
TMJ or TMD
"TMJ Syndrome" is an older name that suggests
one disorder, or syndrome in which all patients have the same symptoms,
and need the same treatment. This is not true.
"Temporomandibular Disorders" is more accurate because
it is not a diagnosis. It implies a group of disorders affecting
the masticatory system.
The masticatory system is comprised of the temporal bone and the
mandible that are attached by the temporomandibular joint, and the
muscles of mastication that move the jaw.
There are many disorders that affect the TJ joint and other disorders
that affect the masticatory muscles. For example synovitis is inflammation
in the joint; disc displacements means the disc in the joints are
"slipped" out of its natural position. Disorders that
affect the jaw muscles. For example myositis is inflammation of
the muscles; myofascial trigger points are knots muscles that refer
pain to another part of the masticatory system.
CLINICAL DEFINITION OF TMD
TMD is a group of disorders affecting the masticatory
system that may cause any one or combination of the following symptoms:
joint pain, joint clicking, popping, grating sounds, and possibly
locking of the jaw either open or closed. In addition, patients
may feel jaw pain, ear pain, toothache, headache, and neckache.
Most patients with acute TMD get better by themselves.
Others experience chronic or intractable pain and/or dysfunction
that make it difficult to chew, speak, swallow, maintain normal
relationships with spouses, children and friends, as well as make
it difficult or impossible to work and earn a living.
WHO GETS TMD
Approximately 85% of TMD patients who need treatment
are treated successfully. Those who do not respond to treatment
may be told the pain is "all in your head" or may think
that on their own. The truth is that TMDs are very much physical
disorders and not psychogenic, although it is true that once a patient
is experiencing intractable pain the pain may lead to stress and
depression. This is a normal reaction to pain.
Overview
of TMJ / TMD | Causes
of TMJ / TMD | Symptoms
of TMJ / TMD
Examination and diagnosis
of TMJ / TMD | Treatments for
TMJ / TMD | Insurance
considerations
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